How to Score Free Products as a Content Creator: UGC Tips & Tricks

Scoring free products as a content creator isn’t just about luck, it’s also about strategy. Brands are always looking for authentic creators to promote their products. If you know how to position yourself, you can tap into these opportunities. No matter what stage you are in on your platform/s here are some tried-and-true techniques that will help you land free products and also build partnerships that can take your content creation journey to the next level.

1. Find Brands with Creator Programs

Brands are making it easier than ever for creators to collaborate by launching creator-specific programs. These programs often cater to micro-influencers or niche creators who align with their values.

Start by researching brands in your niche. Visit their websites and scroll to the bottom. Look for links like Ambassador Program, Collaboration Opportunities, or Creator Sign-Up. Many beauty, fashion, and lifestyle companies have formal programs that allow you to apply directly. Examples include Sephora’s Squad Program, Gymshark’s Athlete Program, and Amazon’s Influencer Program.

Don’t wait for them to find you. Be proactive. If a brand doesn’t have a formal program listed, don’t hesitate to reach out (we’ll cover that next).

2. Master the Art of Cold Outreach

Cold outreach might sound intimidating, but it’s one of the most effective ways to score free products. Brands aren’t mind-readers and often they won’t know you’re interested unless you tell them.

Here’s how to do it right:

Research First: Make sure the brand aligns with your personal brand and audience. If you create UGC around skincare, for example, pitching to a tech company won’t make sense.

Keep Your Pitch Simple: In your email or DM, introduce yourself, explain why you love their products, and outline what you’re offering. Be clear about the value you bring. For example, mention your engagement rates. Also mention how you plan to showcase their product in your content.

Be Personal: Avoid copying and pasting generic messages. Brands can tell. Reference a recent campaign or product launch to show you’ve done your homework.

Don’t just reach out by email. Sometimes brands respond faster on Instagram DMs, especially smaller ones.

3. Join Creator Communities and Forums

Sometimes, the best opportunities come from networking. Creator communities and forums are great for free product opportunities and insider tips. Start by joining groups on Facebook or Discord, specifically for influencers and UGC creators. Communities like AspireIQ, Heartbeat, or Influencer Hub often share campaigns or direct brand contacts looking for creators. You can also discover free product opportunities. You’ll also learn from other creators. They might share templates for pitches or even refer you to brands they’ve worked with (indicating that the brand is open and seeking free product arrangements.)

4. Leverage Creator-Friendly Platforms

There are platforms designed to connect creators with brands. These sites help secure partnerships and often include product gifting opportunities. Some of the best platforms include:

Brandbassador: Connects creators with brands in exchange for free products or commissions.

Influenster: Focuses on product reviews and gifting campaigns.

Skeepers: Offers creators free products in exchange for honest reviews, mainly in beauty and fashion.

The benefit of these platforms? You don’t need to have a massive following. Many cater to creators with niche audiences.

5. Tag Brands Organically

One of the easiest ways to get noticed by brands is by tagging them in your posts. Use their products in your content. Make sure your posts are authentic and engaging.

Brands love to repost user-generated content (UGC) because it feels more relatable than traditional ads. If a brand reposts your content, it’s a foot in the door. It shows they value your work, and it opens up the opportunity to pitch for free products or paid collaborations.

Don’t just tag. Use their hashtags too. Many brands monitor their branded hashtags for creators to collaborate with.

6. Build Relationships with Smaller Brands

Big-name brands may be enticing, but smaller brands are often more willing to collaborate with emerging creators. They have smaller marketing teams and budgets, which means they’re actively looking for creators who can help promote their products. Approach small brands like you would a friend. Start by engaging with their content (comment, share, and like their posts). Once they notice you, reach out to them with a thoughtful pitch.

7. Offer Reviews in Exchange for Products

If you’re not ready to charge for your services, offering to review products in exchange for freebies can be a win-win. This strategy is especially effective for newer creators. When your pitching, outline exactly what the brand will get in return. For example, offer to create a detailed TikTok review, or an Instagram story showcasing the product. Make it clear you’ll put effort into the content, even if you’re not getting paid yet. Scoring free products is about more than just getting free stuff. Receiving free products is all about building relationships and showing brands you’re a valuable partner. Whether you’re tagging products you already love, pitching your ideas, or joining creator communities, remember that every effort you make builds you towards more collaborations and bigger opportunities.